
Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 162 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne worth booking?
Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne is a 6-hour experience in Melbourne, Australia, from $127 per person. It scores 75 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 162 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 75 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (162)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $127 per person
Escape Melbourne on an unforgettable adventure with the Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour. Begin at Grants Picnic Ground, where native birdlife and serene rainforest trails await. Then, board the iconic Puffing Billy Railway at Belgrave Station, and feel the thrill as you dangle your legs over open carriages during a magical one-hour journey through lush forests. At Lakeside Station, explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, discover steam train history, and enjoy lunch (own expense) surrounded by picturesque views. Perfect for nature and history lovers, this tour promises timeless memories for all ages. *At times train may operate in reverse
What you get
About this experience
Escape Melbourne on an unforgettable adventure with the Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour. Begin at Grants Picnic Ground, where native birdlife and serene rainforest trails await. Then, board the iconic Puffing Billy Railway at Belgrave Station, and feel the thrill as you dangle your legs over open carriages during a magical one-hour journey through lush forests. At Lakeside Station, explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, discover steam train history, and enjoy lunch (own expense) surrounded by picturesque views. Perfect for nature and history lovers, this tour promises timeless memories for all ages. *At times train may operate in reverse
What's included
Included
- 1 hour train journey on Puffing Billy
- Return transfers to/from Melbourne in modern vehicle
- Friendly & informative guide
Not included
- Lunch
- Tea and coffee
What you'll see and do
Grants Picnic Ground
Discover native birdlife and tranquil rainforest trails at Grants Picnic Ground, a serene escape in the Dandenong Ranges. This includes travel time from Melbourne to the Dandenong Ranges
90 minutes here
Board Puffing Billy at Belgrave Station, a historic steam train that whisks you into the heart of the rainforest.
15 minutes here
Puffing Billy Railway
Enjoy a magical journey through lush forests on Puffing Billy, dangling your legs over open carriages for an unforgettable ride.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Explore the Lakeside Visitor Centre, learn Puffing Billy's history, and grab lunch (at own expense) while surrounded by the serene lakeside scenery.
60 minutes here
Melbourne
Depart Lakeside and head back to Melbourne in the early afternoon
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the main entrance to Regent Theatre at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait at the corner of Exhibition & Little Bourke Streets at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. We will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Meeting point
Melbourne
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time and look out for the purple Explore Australia Tours vehicle.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the main entrance to Regent Theatre at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait at the corner of Exhibition & Little Bourke Streets at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. We will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully, as it may differ from the advertised tour start time.
Ends at
Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time and look out for the purple Explore Australia Tours vehicle.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 27 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Explore Australia Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 162 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Traveler reviews
162 verified traveler reviews for Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Ordinary
Unfortunately, i understand that steam trains are not always in working order , But atleast have them available to have a look and a photo… This is my 2nd attempt to have a steam train experience and both times have had the diesel engine .. not the same ..!
via Tripadvisor
Nathan was an excellent...
Nathan was an excellent tour guide! He made sure we got to experience the best of Australia and made the whole trip so enjoyable. Highly recommend him if you want to make the most of your Australian experience! 🇦🇺 🦘🚂
via Viator
Our pick up was a fuss...
Our pick up was a fuss free event with the amazing Alan who picked us up. The train ride was an absolutely wonderful with breathtaking views of the scenery. The locals get into it and wave as you go past them. It was such a memorable day that we glad we did. The walk in the rainforest was great as well. If you get Alan he made our trip fun and had so much knowledge and an awesome sense of humour
via Viator
The guide was nice. The...
The guide was nice. The train was crowded and did not have enough seats for our group. That was very disappointing and frustrating. The train ride was pretty. We felt rushed at the end to eat and get back on the bus at the end. I liked the experience, but it was a bit stressful.
via Viator
Great Experience
A great experience although very busy and not quite enough room to fit comfortably with our legs hanging out which was a bit sad.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $127 to $179
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 57
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Explore Australia Tours, who run 10 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.2.
See everything Explore Australia Tours runsWhy this scores 75
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Melbourne.
How much does Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne cost?
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Prices start at $127 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Melbourne usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Melbourne is not rushed.
Is Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 75 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 162 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Melbourne, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Around 57 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Melbourne can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Melbourne and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Melbourne within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Melbourne?
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On Outty we rank every Melbourne experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include From Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cider & Chocolate tour, Melbourne: Epic Yarra Valley Wine Tour & Lunch - Gin/Beer Upgrade, Yarra Valley Wine Tour from Melbourne - Choc, Gin & Good Times. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Melbourne?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Melbourne?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Included: 1 hour train journey on Puffing Billy; Return transfers to/from Melbourne in modern vehicle; and Friendly & informative guide. Not included: Lunch; and Tea and coffee. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Please wait outside the hotel entrance at least 10 minutes before your confirmed pickup time. Explore Australia Tours will send your exact pickup time before departure, so please check your messages carefully. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Puffing Billy & Rainforest Tour from Melbourne?
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Across 162 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
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